It can be intimidating to decorate a blank space with all white walls and no character. Especially when there are restrictions like no painting and no nail holes. But don’t panic – we have ten ways to dress up your rental apartment to make it feel like home sweet home.
1. Many landlords will allow you to paint the walls as long as you agree to paint them white again when you move out. Try painting one bold accent wall instead of the entire room to minimize move-out stress. [Photo: freep.com]
2. Invest in rugs. This layered look gives the living room a purposeful, lived-in feel. Check out more tips here. [Photo: Natalie Franke]
3. Be patient and invest in furniture you really love, like the gorgeous pink unholstered arm chair above. Here are some other great tips. [Photo: Ebay]
4. Create a welcoming entryway with a balance of form and function. A place for keys and spare change is a must; Alyssa recommends having a place for everything. [Photo: Alyssa Rasco]
5. Buy houseplants. This is an easy one, but it really does give your space a sense of life. Check out some more ideas here. [Photo: Liz Marie Blog]
6. Mirrors are a great way to make a small apartment feel larger, says blogger Jennifer Ciani… and they’re a good place to check your hair too! [Photo: Jennifer Ciani]
7. Use fabric and starch to create temporary wallpaper… find out how here. [Photo: Fun, Cheap or Free]
8. Swap out old kitchen hardware for something unique – and don’t forget to bring it with you when you move out! [Photo: Via Completely Coastal]
9. Layer, layer, layer recommends Sarah of 702 Park Project. Put tons of throw pillows on your sofa, drape blankets over the arms of chairs, and put one rug on top of another. This is an easy way to make your space look like it was designed by a professional. [Photo: 702 Park Project]
10. Hang a gallery wall with photos and artwork that you love. The crafty ladies at Pretty Providence teach us how to make a gallery wall without nails here. [Photo: Pretty Providence]
More renter-friendly updates and ideas from Curbly:
